KABUL - The importance of enhancing women’s political role in Afghanistan, particularly in peace talks, was highlighted in a new UN radio programme broadcast today.

In the latest segment of UNAMA’s “Afghanistan Emrooz,” broadcast in Dari on 93.5 Ariana FM, civil society activists and rights advocates discussed a range of issues related to women and politics in Afghanistan, including the contributions and achievements they have made through advocacy and other efforts.

“Women not only have an important role in the peace process, but they also have made significant achievements,” said Abdul Hakeem Mojahid, a member of the High Peace Council. Mr. Mohajid noted that women occupy key positions in the framework of the High Peace Council and have participated in all the main peace conferences.

UNAMA Human Rights Officer Huma Khan said that while women are playing a key role in Afghan politics, their numbers are disproportionately small. “It is important to have a peace process that is transparent and includes everyone, including women,” said Ms. Khan.

In the radio show, civil society activists and rights advocates discussed these and other topics related to women in Afghanistan.

The Pashto version of the half-hour programme is scheduled to be broadcast Thursday on the same station. In addition to being broadcast on Ariana, UNAMA’s programming is picked up by stations across the country, reaching an audience estimated in the millions.

In addition to being broadcast on the radio, episodes of Afghanistan Emrooz are available as downloadable podcasts.